Sandro Tonali has revealed how Newcastle United's fan loyalty has left him flabbergasted since arriving from AC Milan.
The Italy midfielder sat in the stands for most of last season and still heard his name chanted while serving a 10-month FIFA ban. But it is the ability of Newcastle fans to turn up week in, week out and regardless of results that have left Tonali impressed.
Tonali, speaking to beIN Sports, said: "When I had the ban for 10 months, I was still inside St James' Park, and everything from the fans felt the same (levels of affection). It was the same as before the ban. Any player who had a 10 month ban if you have those fans it makes it easier and it felt quicker.
"Every game we have great fans and have 50,000 home fans every game whether it is raining or in the sun. Even if you lose three games, the stadium is always still full. It is amazing.
"In Newcastle, everything is different for the people because it is passionate."
The roof will be raised at St James' Park again before the end of the season with European football beckoning again for the Magpies. With at least a Europa Conference League spot secured, Newcastle will now look to raise the stakes in continental competition and try to better their current deal by moving up to either the Europa League or the Champions League.
Tonali is looking forward to the challenge ahead and said: "Now we have a difficult period. Every game is difficult.
"We need to be strong because the team has been doing well. After a trophy, players can go down for a couple of weeks, but we need to push to stay at the top."
Tonali got a taste of playing in the Champions League in a Newcastle shirt before being hit with his FIFA ban after being caught up in an Italian betting scandal. However, he says the players have had a conversation about the Champions League spots and there is a genuine belief that a top five place can be achieved.
The former AC Milan star Tonali said: "We have had a conversation within the team about five teams qualifying. We have one game in hand too. Every game now will be like a final. I'm happy to be part of history, to win something after 70 years, you aren't a legend maybe but you are big player in the team."
